8/18 ☼ Exploring Temples, Caves, Ghats, and an Imambara: A 3000-Mile Adventure
Mansingh observatory, Namo ghat and Sarnath
In the morning, eager to swim in the Ganges River, we rented a boat to reach the quieter side of the ghat for some peaceful alone time. Our boat captain, a skilled swimmer, shared his experiences of rowing from Varanasi to Prayagraj and even offered to teach us how to swim, not knowing that we were already proficient. Many people bring Ganga water home as it is considered auspicious to store it in a dark and clean place. For those intrigued by yoga, raga, and early chanting, consider participating in a session at Assi Ghat, famously called the Subah-e-Banaras program.
Contents
Mansingh Observatory
Swarved Mahamandir
Namo Ghat
Eateries - Chachi ki dukaan, Bati Chokha and Lassi from Ramnagar
Mansingh Observatory
In the 16th century, the illustrious Raja Maan Singh built this magnificent architectural marvel, which came to be known as Maan Mandir Ghat, after his name. Interestingly, this place was originally called Someshwar before its transformation into the stunning landmark it is today. The ancient Indian astronomers' intelligence and precision shine through the observatory located on the rooftop of the 300-year-old Man Mahal (Palace). You can take a virtual tour here. Some of the attractive yantras are
• Samrat Yantra- For finding time and declination and hour angle
• Narivalaya Dakshinay Yantra- This instrument is used to determine whether heavenly bodies are in the northern or southern hemisphere and to indicate the time.
• Chakra Yantra- For measuring the declination of the sun, moon, and stars and their distance in time(hour angle) from the meridian.
After a morning dip at Ganga and breakfast near Ghat, our first stop was Sarnath, where we learned about Lord Buddha's disciples and their significance. In the museum, we were captivated by the Ashok pillar and the guide enlightened us about the intricate process of making saares. The history of Sarnath deserves a separate post which I will write next, however, our short visit to Mahamandir also deserves its own spotlight.
Swarved Mahamandir
The Swarved Mahamandir, located in Umaraha about 12 km from Varanasi city centre, is one of the largest meditation centres in the world. Featuring a stunning design with 125-petal lotus domes, teakwood ceilings, intricately carved doors, and 101 fountains, it can seat 20,000 people. The seven-floor temple, adorned with pink sandstone and a garden of medicinal herbs, is named after the spiritual text Swarved, authored by Sadguru Shri Sadafal Deoji Maharaj. The temple aims to promote Brahm Vidya, helping spiritual seekers achieve like zen Meditation practitioners.
Following our visit to the temple, we were directed to partake in prasadam at a different section of the temple, where instructors were leading a guided meditation session. My wife and I participated in this brief meditation, during which I shared with the instructor my experiences with mindfulness and compassion practices from previous sessions. We were instructed to concentrate on the tip of our nose with slightly open eyes after chanting the Gayatri mantra. The meaning of the mantra is taken from the web.
Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Suvaha
Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ
Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi
Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt
Meaning: We meditate on that most adored Supreme Lord, the creator, whose effulgence (divine light) illumines all realms (physical, mental and spiritual). May this divine light illumine our intellect.
Namo Ghat
'Namo ghat' has large sculptures resembling folded hands in 'namaste', which is a prominent tourist spot. The floating CNG Mother station at Namo Ghat, the first of its kind in the world, has been operational since December 2021. The walkways connecting Namo Ghat and Rajghat beneath the Malviya Bridge have successfully provided accessibility for differently abled individuals. Interestingly, one can choose to walk from Kashi Railway station to the ghat, passing directly under this very bridge.
Eagerly anticipating the train's arrival, we suddenly heard the whistle of a train
as it approached the river crossing at Namo Ghat. Without hesitation, we quickly captured this beautiful moment.
Eateries - Breakfast, Lassi and Lunch
We enjoyed a delicious breakfast at Chachi ki Dukaan near the ghat, where the Kachori veg was exceptional and reasonably priced. This shop is also well-known on social media. On our way to Namo, we stopped for a tasty lassi in Ramnagar before heading to Bati Chokha for lunch. What made this bati chokha stand out was their policy that strictly forbade entry to the restaurant for anyone who wasn't with a girl or a woman.
Get ready for an exciting journey as I delve into the captivating world of Sarnath in my upcoming post. Stay tuned!